Getting Ready - July 2003-December 2003

Getting ready

for your doctor visit. . .

Eduardo Torres, M.D., Board Certified, Family Practice Mid-Florida Family Health Center, Lake Wales

For some people, going to visit their doctor is just a periodic occurrence. For others it's a scary affair.

In the same way that we prepare for a long road trip with "must haves" and "take alongs", so we must anticipate and plan ahead when we make an appointment to see a doctor. Here are some ideas and guidelines to follow when you are preparing to meet with your physician. Not only will these ideas increase your satisfaction from your encounter, but it will also increase the chance of reaching the correct diagnosis and enhance your plan of care.

Think Ahead. . . Make a list of the issues that need to be addressed and prioritize them in relation to their level of importance. Be mindful of time constraints.
Ask Questions. . . Do not be shy! Do not leave the office with any questions in your mind. This is especially important when it comes to new diagnoses, medicines and lab results. Your physician may not have all the answers. If this is the case, he or she will try to get one to you in a timely manner.
Medications. . . Have a list of all the medicines that you take routinely. "Over the counter" and "herbal" products should be included. If you are a new patient, bringing in your medicine bottles may be a good idea. Do not forget to inquire about side effects and drug-interactions. Let your physician know if prescription refills are needed.
Be Honest. . . We all have "dietary indiscretions" and forget to take our medicines at times. . . Not acknowledging things to your doctor may be detrimental to your health.
Educate Yourself. . . Most medical offices have a wide stock of educational material regarding health topics, nutrition, exercise programs, etc. . . Most of the time these will be offered to you, but if they aren't, please ask. Another option is the internet. Be sure to ask your physician which sites are reliable and trustworthy.
Courtesy. . . Show your doctor and their office staff the courtesy of punctuality. Please arrive at least fifteen minutes early for your scheduled appointment (30 minutes if you are a new patient), and please call ahead if you need to cancel an appointment.
Communication. . . Keep your primary care doctor informed of changes made by other specialists and ensure that they are communicating with each other. Convey your concerns in a timely manner and compliment staff for a job well done when appropriate. Inquire and become knowledgeable of office policies, hours of operation, prescription "refill" protocols, etc. . .